Optical Fibre | Metallic Wire |
Not a lightning hazard as it is non conducting | Can attract and transmit lightning |
Lighter in weight | Heavier in weight |
Not affected by Interference | Affected by interference |
High data bandwidth | Lower data bandwidth |
Lower data loss | Data loss is more |
Faster data transmission | Relatively slower data transmission |
Unauthorised tapping of data is difficult | Easier to tap data without authorization. |
Difficult to terminate | Easier to terminate |
High initial cost | Lower initial cost |
Less affected by chemicals and pollution | More prone to effects of pollution |
No risk of sparking. Hence, can be used in petroleum and chemical industries. | Risk of sparking and fire. Hence, cannot be used in hazardous environments. |